WILLIAM BENSON "BEN" STERLING, 89, of Crisfield, died Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at Manokin Manor Nursing Home in Princess Anne.

Born in Crisfield on January 18, 1920, he was a son of the late William and Mary Ann Hickman Sterling.

He was a retired custodian of the former Maryland Crabmeat Company, and also worked at the former Mrs. Paul's Kitchens, both Crisfield.

He was a US Army World War II veteran, and held memberships with Asbury United Methodist Church and the Stanley Cochrane Post #16 American Legion, both Crisfield.
His favorite pastime was to sit in Gordon's and chat with all the guys.

He is survived by two nieces, Norma Lee Bradshaw and Tommie Rae Atkins; one nephew, John Byrd; four great-nephews; one great-great-nephew; and three great-great-nieces.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Raymond and George Thomas Sterling; and two sisters, Ellestine Byrd and Mary Ann Bradshaw Dize.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 18, 2009 at 2 PM at Asbury United Methodist Church in Crisfield where friends may call one half hour prior to the service. Pastor Jeff James will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, Ohio 45250-0301.

Arrangements are in the care of Bradshaw & Sons Funeral Home.